Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of India Bandaru Wilsonbabu paid an official visit to the region, combining economic and cultural dialogue in his agenda.

This visit was a clear embodiment of India's "Extended Neighborhood" strategy and the ancient philosophy of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam," which translates from Sanskrit as "The Whole World Is One Family."

Economic Bridge: Mary and Five Indian States

During talks with Dovranberdi Annaberdiev, Governor of the Mary Region, and Artyk Bashimov, Mayor of the City of Mary, specific ways to enhance trade were discussed.

Particular attention was paid to a special event aimed at establishing direct ties between the Mary Region and five powerful industrial states of India: Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan. This "region-to-region" format allows Turkmenistan to leverage the expertise of India's leading economic hubs in agriculture, technology, and light industry.

The Magic of Bollywood and Yoga as a Path to Understanding

The cultural program of the visit was no less rich. The Ambassador officially opened the Indian Film Festival. From February 20th to 24th, viewers could immerse themselves in the atmosphere of Indian cinema for free at the Belent Shopping Center. The program included eight films from different eras and genres—from timeless classics to contemporary hits demonstrating the evolution of Indian theatrical traditions.

The program in Mary also included the topic of health and harmony. Ambassador Bandaru Wilsonbabu and head of the Mary Region Committee for Physical Culture and Sports, Dovran Myradov, participated in a special yoga class. This ancient practice, which has become a global treasure, once again served as a "soft power" uniting people of different cultures.

India reaffirmed its willingness to share experience and technology in line with Turkmenistan's development priorities, emphasizing that the Mary region, with its rich historical heritage and economic potential, occupies an important place in the bilateral partnership.